Punjab Ration Card 2025 Launched – Online Apply Eligibility & CNIC Check

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz recently launched the “Maryam Nawaz Ration Card Program” at a ceremony in Lahore’s Expo Center. The initiative, dubbed the largest ration aid scheme in the province’s history, aims to support 1.25 million laborer families with monthly subsidies and essential goods.

Key Features of the Ration Card Program

• Monthly Subsidy: Eligible workers will receive Rs3,000 per month via a digital ration card.

• Free Food Items: The card provides discounted or free wheat flour, ghee, sugar, lentils, and other staples at registered shops.

• Digital Access: Families can apply online or via SMS, with approvals linked to their CNIC (national ID).

Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, applicants must:

1. Live in Punjab.

2. Have a valid CNIC.

3. Belong to a low-income household (income below the poverty line).

4. Be registered in the Ehsaas or BISP welfare databases.
   Note: Government employees are excluded.

How to Apply

1. Online: Visit ehsaas.punjab.gov.pk, enter your CNIC and mobile number, and submit the form.

2. SMS: Send your 13-digit CNIC to 8123 for instant eligibility checks.

Checking Application Status

• Use the Ehsaas portal or SMS your CNIC to 8123 for updates.

Additional Welfare Projects Announced
During the event, CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted other initiatives:

• Housing: Construction of 1,220 new homes for laborers, with a target of 100,000 homes province-wide.

• Transport: Expanding the Green Bus fleet by 500 buses to offer affordable travel.

• Healthcare: Opening Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital (Pakistan’s first public cancer hospital) and the Nawaz Sharif Cardiology Hospital in June.

• Education: Distributing 100,000 free laptops and covering tuition for 50,000 students.

Statements from the Chief Minister
Maryam Nawaz emphasized dignity for workers: *“This program is for those laboring 12-14 hours daily, not those who don’t work. Their children shouldn’t go hungry.”* She vowed to bridge gaps between government services and citizens, adding, “We’ll reach the people—they won’t need to come to us.”

Event Attendees
Senior officials, including Provincial Ministers Maryam Aurangzeb and Uzma Bukhari, praised the program’s focus on labor welfare and anti-poverty efforts.

Controversies & Challenges
While the program has been welcomed, critics question its long-term funding and implementation. Past subsidy schemes in Pakistan faced issues like corruption and delayed aid. However, the digital system aims to reduce leaks by linking subsidies directly to CNICs and registered vendors.

Public Reaction
Labor unions and low-income families have applauded the initiative. “Rs3,000 monthly helps feed my children,” said Ali, a construction worker from Faisalabad. Meanwhile, opposition parties demand transparency in beneficiary selection.